Do you know how to anchor a trampoline down when the weather turns bad? We have the 3 best ways to secure your trampoline from blowing away.
To anchor a trampoline down, use wind stakes for under 60 mph winds and auger-style anchors up to 100 mph winds, along with sandbags to anchor a trampoline down during strong winds. Wind stakes are the easiest to install by tapping the U-shaped stakes into the ground over the legs of the trampoline. Auger-style anchors give more security because the corkscrew stakes are twisted deep into the ground and then straps are secured around the legs. For final strength, place 2 sandbags over each leg of the trampoline.
Trampolines can be found at almost every household. The large surface area of trampolines however, make them susceptible to being blown away. Because storms can come and go at random, you need to be prepared to keep your trampoline secure.
High winds and stormy weather can easily lift and move your trampoline. It can end up damaging property or hitting electrical wires. To prevent these dangerous outcomes, you need to know how to anchor a trampoline down.
There are a few different ways to do this and we are going to show you how. You want to be ready for any weather change before it is too late.
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How To Keep A Trampoline From Blowing Away
Trampolines can withstand most minor winds. But what about high gusts or storms? It is important to know how to anchor a trampoline down to protect your investment.
There are a few ways this can be done. Thankfully, they are all affordable and relatively simple too. Our guide will help you through the process.
How To Secure A Trampoline To The Ground
The easiest way to secure your trampoline is using wind stakes. You can install these at the same time as you assemble the trampoline. This way it is secured any time the wind picks up.
You want to use U-shaped wind stakes, typically made from solid steel. If you live in an area prone to high winds, choose heavy-duty stakes. Sets of stakes are sold in fours and installation is easy.
Position each stake over the legs of the trampoline. Space them around the legs evenly. You get the most stability when they are set equal distance from one another. The size of the stakes is typically wide enough to cover most trampoline leg sizes.
Tap the stakes into the ground using a mallet or hammer. A few taps are all you need to set them firmly in the ground. Test them with a jiggle after they are in. You want to make sure they are set firmly. If they feel loose, pull them up and hammer them in again in a slightly different position.
These wind stakes can be used on several surfaces. Clay, grass, turf, and dirt will hold these stakes in place. If the ground is too hard to hammer the stakes in easily, you can dampen it with water.
If you ever need to remove the stakes, this can be done quickly with a screwdriver blade. Slide the blade between the stake and trampoline leg and edge it upwards.
Once it is high enough you can pull it out the rest of the way by hand. If the stakes are ever bent or broken, make sure you replace them right away.
How To Anchor A Trampoline On Concrete
Trampolines on concrete can shift more easily. Anchoring it will prevent this as well as keep the trampoline from blowing away. The problem is that there are no anchor kits for securing trampolines to concrete.
The simplest way to anchor a trampoline in concrete is using weights or sandbags. The legs can still come loose in heavy winds, this is the only real option for concrete. Sandbags will keep a trampoline secure in most cases.
How To Tie Down A Trampoline
Another way to secure a trampoline is using an auger-style anchor. These are more than just stakes. They include a strapping system to tie the trampoline down.
A typical kit will include 4 adjustable straps and a steel auger. These kits are ideal for areas prone to storms and high winds, but they are also more expensive.
Measure 1 to 1.5 feet inward from the legs. You want to place the augers here. Measure each spot individually, to get more accurate placement. Screw each auger into the ground on each side of the trampoline.
The pointed tip of the auger needs to be against the ground. Hold on to the hooked end of the auger and twist it clockwise into the ground. You can stop when only the hook is left above ground, you can stop. Do this with all four augers.
Jostle all of them to make sure they are all secure before moving on. Check each auger from ground level to make sure they are as vertical as possible. If you have trouble twisting them into the ground, wet the ground first. This minimizes resistance.
Loop the straps from the kit over the frame of the trampoline. Pull them up and over the circular bar directly over each auger. Both ends need to hang at the same length.
Anchor the trampoline at the top of the frame for a more secure hold. You may get a kit that has 2-piece straps and a ratchet. These are easier to cinch down. For these kits, the auger will strap directly to the strap.
Take the free end of the strap through the auger. Insert into the hook on the auger and then line it up with the buckle. Make sure there are no knots before you pull it through the auger.
Take the strap and feed it through the buckle. Pull the free end down to remove any slack. Do this on every side of the trampoline.
Tighten all straps, making sure none of them give when you yank on them. Pulling on one strap can loosen another, so you will have to check each one a few times until they are all tightened.
If you end up with any free ends dangling to the ground, wrap the extra length around the legs to keep them out of the way. You may also want to fasten all straps in a knot for additional security.
How Much Wind Will Lift A Trampoline
It is the large surface area of a trampoline that leaves it susceptible to lifting by the wind. The speed of the wind needed to lift a trampoline will vary by the location of the trampoline. Winds as low as 40 mph can move a trampoline a few feet when it is out in the open.
Trampolines in gardens often have fences or barriers to help shelter them. Trees and hedges can provide some protection too. These natural or man-made barriers prevent wind from getting under the trampoline to lift it.
If you do not have any of these barriers, the trampoline can blow away more easily.
Even with these barriers, you may want to invest in anchoring the trampoline down. The added security will work in your favor should any high winds blow through.
You do not want to risk any damage to property; yours or your neighbors. A reliable and affordable anchor kit from Amazon is the best way to secure your trampoline.
How To Secure Trampoline During Storm
Anchor kits are the best way to secure your trampoline, but what about storms? Storms and severe winds are stronger. If you live in an area prone to stormy weather, you may want a more secure option.
Wide arch anchors are heavy-duty and more reliable for holding trampolines during storms. The sets typically come with 8 pins, made of thicker galvanized steel.
These are the best for winter conditions and stormy seasons. They are more expensive than regular anchor kits, but worth the investment if you live in these areas.
The wider arches allow for more coverage and they can accommodate larger sized bars. The galvanized steel will also never rust no matter what the weather. The ribbing around each arch helps provide a more secure fit into the ground.
How To Secure A Trampoline During Hurricane
A hurricane produces the strongest winds known to man. In these cases you need a heavy-duty anchor kit to secure your trampoline. Depending on the force of the winds, even these anchors may not be enough.
In many cases it is worth considering moving the trampoline indoors if possible.
You can also dismantle the trampoline. While this is a hassle, it may be the best option to save your trampoline during a hurricane. This is also only an option if you have a forecast of a storm coming, as you will need time.
You can also remove the net from the trampoline before a hurricane hits. These nets can act like a sail making it easier for winds to lift and carry trampolines. With a lowered net and strong anchors, your trampoline stands a good chance if staying put.
For more information on how to put on and take off a trampoline net enclosure, check out my article How To Put A Net On A Trampline The Easy Way.
Best Way To Anchor A Trampoline
You know how to anchor a trampoline down, but what anchors do you use? You invested in your trampoline, so you do not want to risk it blowing away. You also do not want to be responsible for any damage it causes as it blows through the neighborhood.
There are two types of anchor kits for trampolines. Cheaper kits are available but will not perform as well. The resistance for these kits will be a maximum of 60 kg. This means that it will hold down 60 kg in high winds or storms. For less windy areas, these kits will be sufficient.
You can also get heavy-duty anchor kits. These hold down heavier loads, up to 150 kg. These kits will keep your trampoline anchored during the highest winds and strongest storms. This is recommended for areas prone to bad weather and expensive trampolines.
Best Way To Weigh Down A Trampoline
Sandbags are not the only way to weigh down a trampoline. You can also buy weights to perform the same job. Canopy weights on Amazon that are typically used for securing tents or canopies, can also be used for trampolines.
These are convenient and discrete and can be stored near the trampoline. Any time it gets windy, you can quickly place them over the trampoline legs. The weight sets have different weights included, so you can add the weight you think is best for your trampoline size.
Heavy Duty Trampoline Anchors
The auger-style anchors are thought to be more heavy-duty and Amazon has a reliable kit. These anchors are easy to screw into the ground and will stay put no matter how windy it gets.
These are more expensive than U-shaped stakes, but they are sturdier and better for windier areas. The auger-style anchors are also easy to remove. The black coated anchors protect against rust and corrosion and the belt straps are strong and easily attached to the buckles.
Best Wind Stakes For Trampoline
Skywalker is a trusted name for trampolines, and they are a great resource when you need to know how to anchor a trampoline down. This wind stake kit is available on Amazon and is both affordable and reliable.
The stakes are easily hammered into the ground and made to last. Made from galvanized steel, the stakes will not rust, and they will keep the trampoline in one spot.
Trampoline Sandbags
Using sandbags to anchor down your trampoline is an old school method, but it does work. This more traditional method can hold your trampoline down when you have concrete ground, or when there is little risk of high winds.
You do not have to keep the sandbags on the trampoline. They can be easily added to the legs anytime the weather turns. Amazon has several affordable options for trampoline sandbags.
Heavy Duty Trampoline Stakes & Anchor Kit
As mentioned, a heavy-duty anchor kit is necessary for areas known to have high winds. With a heavy-duty kit from Amazon, you can prevent your trampoline from blowing away in storms.
These anchors will also keep your trampoline stationary no matter how much bouncing is done. Most of these heavy-duty kits fit all shapes and sizes of trampolines and they are built to last.
Best Cheap Trampoline Anchor Kit
If you have a budget but still need to anchor down your trampoline, this is the most reliable anchor kit. The galvanized steel stakes are rust-resistant, and the polyester straps are of high-tensile strength.
This kit can withstand winds up to grade 5 and 6. You will see the trees swaying in your yard, but never your trampoline. You do not need to spend a fortune to prevent your trampoline from flying away. However, this kit is not recommended for high-storm areas.
Helpful Tips For How To Anchor A Trampoline Down Fast
The fastest way to get a trampoline secure is by having sandbags on hand. They can be quickly thrown over the legs when the wind starts picking up. Alternatively, you can install anchors as soon as you get the trampoline. That way it is secure and ready to face any weather.
It is also worth considering:
- Getting a trampoline skirt. These reduce the amount of force the wind has when it gets under the trampoline
- Disassembling the trampoline (in severe storms or hurricanes)
- Moving the trampoline indoors if possible
- Burying your trampoline in the ground so you don’t have to worry about it moving. Check out my article, How To Bury A Trampoline Fast.
Final Thoughts
You want to protect your trampoline. And prevent damage in the neighborhood caused by a rogue trampoline. So, knowing how to anchor a trampoline down is a necessity.
Anchoring a trampoline not only keeps the trampoline safe from winds, it keeps your bouncers safe. Stakes or anchors keep the trampoline secure in one spot. It will not topple over no matter how enthusiastic the bouncing gets.
The large surface area makes it easy for winds to pick up trampolines. Being prepared will prevent this. Following our guide and recommendation will make sure you get the right anchors to use.
A trampoline anchor kit is the best way to prevent accidents, and prevention is the best protection.